Daily Readings - Tue May 28 2019
Acts
22And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.23And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:24Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.25And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.26And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.27And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.28But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.29Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,30And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?31And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.32And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.33And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.34And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.
John
5But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou?6But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart.7Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.8And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:9Of sin, because they believe not on me;10Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;11Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that illuminate the power of faith and the transformative presence of the Holy Spirit. The first reading from Acts recounts the trials of Paul and Silas, who, despite imprisonment and physical suffering, find strength in their devotion to God. Their hymns of praise during captivity exemplify unwavering faith, leading to a miraculous earthquake that frees them. This event not only liberates them physically but also opens the heart of the jailer, who, in a moment of desperation, seeks salvation. The jailer's conversion, along with his family, underscores the Holy Spirit's active role in bringing light to those in darkness.
The Gospel reading from John presents Jesus' discourse on the Holy Spirit, emphasizing His role as the Advocate. Jesus explains that His departure is necessary for the Spirit to come, who will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. This passage highlights the Spirit's mission to guide and transform, preparing the disciples for the challenges ahead. The connection between the two readings lies in the Holy Spirit's agency—whether in the courage of Paul and Silas or in the conviction of the jailer, the Spirit's power is evident.
Reflecting on these readings, we are reminded to trust in God's providence, especially during trials. The Holy Spirit's presence in our lives can transform any situation, offering courage and guidance. As we navigate our own challenges, let us remain open to the Spirit's prompting, allowing Him to lead us to acts of faith and compassion. The moral lesson here is clear: faith and the Holy Spirit's transformative power can turn any darkness into light, offering hope and renewal. May we, like Paul, Silas, and the jailer, embrace the Spirit's work in our hearts, leading to a life of joy and service.